This Week in Odessa History

100 years ago

Jan. 7, 1921

The opening dance at the New Community Hall given by the Odessa Concert Band New Year’s eve was one of the largest ever held in Odessa and also one of the most enjoyable. Dancing began at 8:30 and continued until nearly four in the morning. The prize waltz was held at 11 p.m. and Mr. and Mrs. C.E. Jenks were awarded first prize in the waltz contest.

Con. H. Eckhardt’s crew of men began excavation for installation of the new five-ton Armstrong ice plant in the Odessa Meat Market.

75 years ago

Jan. 3, 1946

James Scrupps and Esther Schimke were united in marriage by Rev. M.J. Galle. Attendants were Mr. and Mrs. J.W. Scrupps. Mr. Scrupps recently received his discharge from the army after serving in Europe.

A recent survey shows about 70 new families in the community and housing is critical. New businesses are also clamoring for locations, being forced at present to double up with existing firms, sharing such space as remains.

New arrivals: Leslie Wayne Goetz born to Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Goetz of Odessa and Myrna Marie Kramer to Mr. and Mrs. Victor Kramer of Ritzville.

50 years ago

Jan. 7, 1971

The Odessa Tigers basketball team won the St. John Christmas tournament. Host St. John led by one point at the half, but the second half was all Tigers. Marty Meise drove down the floor repeatedly on his way to scoring a game-high 31 points

The former Baptist Church parsonage was moved to property owned by Ed Heimbigner immediately east of its former site. Plans are for renovations to be completed before occupancy.

Richard Zagelow married Thirza Ann Hawk at the English Congregational Church [Ed. Note: Now the Odessa Foursquare Church] in Odessa, officiated by Rev. John Birchard

Myrna Heimbigner and Tom Wolsborn announced their engagement. Both are currently juniors at Eastern Wash. State College in Cheney.

25 years ago

Jan. 4, 1996

The suspect in the Davenport courthouse fire of last week is a 17o-year-old juvenile. Fire investigators have confirmed that the fire was arson but are awaiting lab tests to determine whether accelerants were used. The subject is in custody on other charges, having been spotted in the crowd watching the fire by deputies. He is currently charged with kidnapping and assault.

Odessa got an ice rink in the new year. Carl Ryan and Roger Sebesta proposed a design also used in Cheney using hay bales and a purchased liner. The Youth Garden organization bought the liner, the FBLA bought straw from King Brothers, which also donated the use of its equipment to bring the bales to town, and the Grange Supply Co. brought its water truck to fill the rink. The rink is located near the volleyball nets at Reiman Park.